RAPACIOUS REPTILES Garter snakes, often seen sunning themselves on warm rocks, are omnivores, consuming almost anything they can swallow. dreamstime.com photo
Fourth clam fandango the best yet
The living by the hundreds turn out for fest’s tribute to the Dead
Story and photos by Manor Ink Staff
Fine weather and comfortable temperatures greeted scores of families and friends who attended Livingston Manor’s fourth annual Catskill Conductors Clambake on Saturday, Sept. 14. From noon until 7 p.m., the music, a special tribute to the rock and folk of the venerable Grateful Dead, as well as crafts, fine art, specialties and food – especially the food! – delighted crowds of Manorites and visitors alike.
A tradition dating back to the late 19th century, the Catskills Conductors Clambake, a fete originally organized by the railway workers of the Ontario & Western Company, was revived four years ago by the Smoke Joint, the hamlet’s barbecue eatery. This year’s event was a benefit for the Manor’s Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum, and it was held once again at KC’s Airport on Rte. 17, just south of town.
The open field, bright sunshine and gentle breezes provided ample inspiration for kids and many adults to move to the music provided by violinist and organizer Chris Murphy, Johnny Markowski & Friends, the Drop of Dew Band and Particle Theory.
“We’re just having a great time,” said one visitor from Saratoga. “It’s really beautiful here, and we love this town.” It was an observation that few at the Clambake would find fault with.
